Imagine this: you’re craving a quick snack or need to reheat leftovers in a flash, but your kitchen feels like it’s bursting at the seams. Sound familiar? For many of us, finding a microwave that fits perfectly on our countertop without taking over the entire space is a real challenge. It’s not just about size, though. You also want something that heats food well, is easy to use, and looks good in your kitchen.
Choosing the right compact countertop microwave can feel like a puzzle. There are so many brands, features, and price points to consider, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You might worry about getting a microwave that’s too small to fit your plates or too big and clunky for your limited counter space. What if it doesn’t cook evenly, or the buttons are confusing?
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great compact countertop microwave and what to look for. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of how to find the perfect small microwave that meets your needs and makes your kitchen life a little bit easier. Let’s dive in and discover how to find your ideal kitchen helper.
Our Top 5 Compact Countertop Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Compact Countertop Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, a compact powerhouse designed for your busy kitchen. This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave packs 700 watts of cooking power, offering 10 different power levels to handle everything from melting butter to quickly reheating leftovers. Its sleek black finish and modern design will complement any kitchen décor. Plus, it’s easy to clean, making kitchen cleanup a breeze.
What We Like:
- Extra-Quick Cooking: Six convenient presets (popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers) make cooking simple. You can also just press the number keys for quick minute settings.
- Versatile Power: Ten power levels let you control the heat precisely, from gentle melting to rapid cooking.
- User-Friendly Digital Controls: Setting time and power is easy. The +30 seconds button adds extra cooking time with just one touch.
- Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch access.
- Safety Features: A child safety lock prevents accidental door openings, and a Lock Mode secures the control panel.
- Mute Option: Turn off annoying beeps with the Audio Button for a quieter kitchen.
- Eco Mode: Save energy and disable the display when the microwave isn’t in use.
- Easy to Clean: The durable exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Trusted Quality: cETL approved with advanced safety technology and a 1-year Chefman assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for very large dishes or family-sized meals.
- While it has many presets, some users might prefer even more specialized cooking options.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and performance in a compact package. It’s a reliable choice for everyday cooking needs.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.4/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and feature-rich appliance designed to simplify your kitchen tasks. This 0.7 cu ft black microwave boasts a user-friendly interface with easy one-touch buttons and a bright digital display. It’s perfect for small kitchens or anyone looking for a straightforward microwave that gets the job done.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a fantastic feature that lets you cook without annoying beeps.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power, which is good for your wallet and the environment.
- One-touch express cooking buttons provide quick and easy ways to heat food, from 1 to 6 minutes.
- It has helpful auto-cook presets for common items like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and beverages.
- The child safety lock adds peace of mind for families with young children.
- Defrosting is easy with options for either weight or time.
- The interior light and 10-inch glass turntable make it simple to see and clean.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for added security.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu ft capacity might be a bit small for larger families or cooking very big dishes.
- While it has express cooking, some users might prefer more advanced customization options for cooking times and power levels.
Overall, this COMFEE microwave offers great value with its convenient features and energy-saving capabilities. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and quiet countertop microwave.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.7/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact, 0.9 cubic foot microwave oven that’s designed for modern living. Its sleek Black Stainless Steel finish looks great in any kitchen, especially in apartments or dorm rooms where space is limited. This microwave makes cooking and reheating simple with its smart features and user-friendly design.
What We Like:
- It has a handy Child Lock feature. This keeps little ones safe by preventing them from accidentally turning it on.
- The 900-watt power cooks food quickly and evenly.
- It comes with 6 preset menus. You can easily cook popcorn, pizza, or potatoes with just a touch.
- You get 11 different power levels. This lets you control how much heat you use, perfect for different kinds of food.
- The Mute Mode is a great feature. It stops the microwave from beeping loudly when it’s done cooking, so it won’t disturb anyone.
- Defrosting is easy. You can defrost by weight or by time, saving you time when preparing meals.
- The One-Touch Start button lets you quickly start cooking for 1 to 6 minutes at full power.
- It has a bright LED light inside. This makes it easy to see your food while it’s cooking.
- The 10.6-inch glass turntable is removable. This makes cleaning up spills a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are a bit wide. It might take up a good amount of counter space in very small kitchens.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a smart and convenient addition to any kitchen. It offers a great balance of features and a compact size.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 9.0/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a fantastic little appliance that brings convenience to any small kitchen. Its stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to wipe clean, making it a practical choice for busy households. This microwave is designed to make your life simpler, whether you’re heating up leftovers or making a quick snack.
What We Like:
- It packs a punch with 700 watts of power, heating food quickly.
- Ten different power levels and multi-stage cooking let you customize your heating.
- Six one-touch options, like popcorn and pizza, make cooking super easy.
- The defrost settings (by weight or time) are very handy.
- Its 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for apartments, dorms, or offices.
- The LED display, kitchen timer, and clock are clear and helpful.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
- The easy-to-clean stainless steel interior and exterior are a big plus.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a slightly larger capacity for bigger meals.
- While it has many presets, advanced cooks might want more manual control options.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a compact and user-friendly cooking solution. It offers a great balance of features and performance for its size.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.6/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact and user-friendly appliance that fits well in any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great on your countertop. This microwave is designed for simple everyday cooking and reheating.
What We Like:
- It has helpful pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super fast for quick heating.
- The large LED display makes it easy to see the time and settings.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- The removable glass turntable is 10 inches wide and cleans up easily.
- The push-button door opens smoothly for easy access to your food.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt cooking power might be a bit slow for some larger or denser foods.
- While compact, its 0.7 cubic feet capacity might feel small for families or when heating large dishes.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for individuals or small households needing a straightforward and dependable way to heat food. It offers convenient features at a good value.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Compact Countertop Microwave
Finding the right compact countertop microwave can make your kitchen life much easier. These small but mighty appliances are perfect for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or quickly cooking small meals. This guide will help you choose the one that fits your needs perfectly.
What to Look For: Key Features to Consider
When you shop for a compact microwave, pay attention to these important features:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 700 watts for good performance. Some offer 900 or 1000 watts for even quicker meals.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): This is the inside space. Compact models usually range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. Think about what you’ll be heating. A small plate fits in most, but a larger dinner plate or a small casserole dish might need more room.
- Turntable Size: The turntable spins your food for even heating. Make sure it’s large enough for your everyday dishes. Most compact microwaves have turntables that fit standard dinner plates.
- Preset Cooking Programs: Many microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These take the guesswork out of cooking times and power levels.
- Defrost Settings: This feature allows you to thaw frozen food. Look for weight-based or time-based defrost options.
- Child Lock: If you have little ones, a child lock feature prevents them from accidentally starting the microwave.
- Digital Display and Controls: Easy-to-read displays and simple buttons make using the microwave straightforward. Touch controls often look modern and are easy to wipe clean.
Materials That Matter: What Your Microwave is Made Of
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Interior: Most microwave interiors are made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel is more durable and easier to wipe clean. It also looks sleeker. Painted interiors are common and work well, but they can scratch or chip over time.
- Exterior: The outside is usually plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel exteriors are more robust and resist fingerprints better. Plastic exteriors are lighter and often less expensive.
Quality Check: What Makes a Microwave Great (or Not So Great)
Several things can improve or reduce the quality of your compact microwave experience.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Even Heating: The best microwaves heat food evenly without hot spots. This often comes from good wattage and a reliable turntable.
- Quiet Operation: A good microwave won’t be overly noisy while it’s running.
- Durability: A well-built microwave will last for many years. Look for sturdy construction and quality materials.
- Ease of Cleaning: A non-stick interior and a smooth exterior make cleaning a breeze.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Uneven Heating: Food that is still cold in the middle after cooking is frustrating.
- Loud Noises: A microwave that rattles or hums loudly can be annoying.
- Flimsy Construction: If the door feels loose or the buttons are cheap, the microwave might not last long.
- Difficult Cleaning: Stubborn stains or hard-to-reach areas make cleaning a chore.
Putting It to Use: User Experience and Common Uses
Compact countertop microwaves are designed for convenience. They are perfect for:
- Single Households or Dorm Rooms: Small spaces benefit greatly from these efficient appliances.
- Busy Professionals: Quickly reheat lunch or prepare a simple dinner after a long day.
- Adding a Second Microwave: Keep one in a home office or a finished basement for easy access.
- Specific Tasks: If you only need a microwave for occasional use, like making popcorn or warming drinks, a compact model is ideal.
Using a compact microwave is usually very simple. You place your food inside, close the door, select your cooking time and power level, and press start. Many have helpful presets that do the work for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Compact Countertop Microwaves
Q: What is the typical wattage for a compact microwave?
A: Most compact microwaves have a wattage between 700 and 1000 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking.
Q: How much food can I fit inside a compact microwave?
A: Compact microwaves usually have a capacity of 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. This is enough for a standard dinner plate or a small bowl.
Q: Do compact microwaves heat food evenly?
A: Many do, especially those with a good wattage and a functioning turntable. Check reviews to see what other users say about even heating.
Q: Are compact microwaves difficult to clean?
A: It depends on the model. Microwaves with smooth, non-stick interiors and exteriors are the easiest to clean.
Q: What is a turntable, and why is it important?
A: The turntable is the glass plate that spins inside the microwave. It rotates your food to ensure it heats evenly on all sides.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a compact microwave?
A: You can cook many simple meals, like reheating leftovers or cooking frozen dinners. Very large dishes might not fit.
Q: Are compact microwaves energy-efficient?
A: While all microwaves use electricity, newer models are generally more energy-efficient. Look for Energy Star certified models if this is a concern.
Q: What does “preset cooking” mean?
A: Preset cooking means the microwave has pre-programmed settings for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. You just select the food, and the microwave sets the cooking time and power.
Q: How long does a compact microwave usually last?
A: With proper care, a compact microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.
Q: Should I choose a stainless steel or plastic exterior?
A: Stainless steel is more durable and easier to keep clean, often resisting fingerprints. Plastic is lighter and usually less expensive.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!